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BY 


THE O’BYRNES 

Authors of “Idyls of Lakeside” “ Susquehanna " 
“ c Playlets and c Poems” 


I 


Foreword 


BY 


REV. JOSEPH L. O’BRIEN, M. A. 


C. C. BYRNE 

PORT WASHINGTON LONG ISLAND 


Copyright 1923 by C. C. Byrne 




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Dedication 


To the lovers of learning 
Who proffered their aid 
That the brightness of truth 

May through darkness pervade, 
That the clear gleaming beacon 
Of fair Mary wood 
May shed through this valley 
An influence good— 

To these dear friends we offer 
The following pages. 

May God’s blessing rest on them 
Through unending ages. 



Foreword 


One may tell himself that he does not like to read poetry, 
but he tells himself an untruth. He may not care for certain 
types of poetry or for the work of poets who have climbed 
to the summits of poetic grandeur, but there are little songs 
that will sing their way into the heart of the most prosaic 
if he but seek them. 

Song is as natural to the human heart as rhythm is to 
the pulse. Not all are endowed by temperament or prepared 
by training to enjoy the works of the mighty masters. To 
many their work must ever remain unknown. But these 
many need not thereby be shut out from the beautiful world 
of song. There are the singers of simple songs—and their 
name is legion—writers of the simple lays for which Long¬ 
fellow, artist and scholar though he was, longed, whose 
poems will carry their message of cheer to the man and the 
woman of this workaday world if they but read them. 

In the verse published in this volume now offered to the 
public we have the simple lays of sweet singers—lays into 
the web and woof of which are woven graceful reference 
to men and things of local interest. The writers have already 
published two volumes of poems which have won for them 
a host of admirers. This volume of poems will be a source 
of delight to their many friends and will be welcomed by 
those who seek for a song at e’en after the cares and toils of 
the day. 


July, 1923. 


Joseph L. O’Brien. 




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CONTENTS 


Page 

A Communion Prayer to Mary. 13 

A Jubilee Blossom. 50 

A Jubilee Gift. 54 

A Memory. 93 

A Musical Event. 34 

A Social Affair. 42 

A Stone from Cana of Galilee. 3 

A Welcome. 60 

Acrostics ..;.. 31 

An Irishman’s Prayer to Saint Anthony. 86 

At Father Lally’s Tomb. 8 

At Marywood. 71 

Balthasar at the Crib. 66 

Bishop Brennan. 4 

Brig-id . 41 

Carbondale . 26 

Civilization . 57 

Easter Day.t. 16 

Easter Morning Early... 28 

Easter on the Farjn. 47 

Elizabeth Alice. 46 

Glorious Saint Joseph. 44 

God Reward the Doctor. 21 

God’s Priest. 7 

Heart of Jesus. 41 

He Is Risen. 18 

Here’s to Nellie. 69 

Herself . 5 

Her Sweetest Charm. 74 

Jubilee Flowers. 64 

Little Bubbles Luckenbach.. 39 

vii 


































CONTENTS—Continued 


Page 

Little Clare. 65 

Little Flower of Tesus... 36 

Long Island’s Winter Dress. 30 

Lucky Chubby Luckenbach. 37 

Marriage Greetings. 29 

Mary wood . 1 

Mayor Durkan... 6 

Mother’s Birthday. 17 

My Mother’s Piano....101 

Old Days. 55 

On Golgotha. 27 

Opaque .i... 11 

Our Bishop..... 2 

Patrick F. Durkan. 94 

Pittston . 82 

Pride of Peru...i. 11 

Saint Brigid. 40 

Saint Christopher. . . 14 

Saint Patrick’s Day Greetings. 70 

Seat of Wisdom... 15 

She and 1. 19 

Sister Jerome. 68 

Sister M. Stella. 61 

Sweet Comfort. 98 

The Archbald Spirit. 12 

The Carpenter’s Son. 78 

The Day We Spent at Green Mount.102 

The Friend of the Poor. 99 

The Golden Jubilee. 73 

The Heart of Mary’s Son. 22 

The Hempstead House Estate. 48 

The Holly Berry Season.!... 35 

viii 



































CONTENTS-Continued 


Page 


The Invitation. 

The Maid of Toulouse. 

The Rest Cure.. 

The Seers of Scranton. 

The Sense of Loss. 

The Shamrock. 

The Silver Jubilee. 

The Snowbird. 

The Story-Teller. 

The Wilkes-Barre Square. 

To a Baby. 

To a Bride. 

To a Namesake of Saint Patrick.... 

To Anastasia.:. 

To a Novice... 

To First Communicants. 

To Laurence. 

To Margaret. 

To Michael. 

To M. J. R. 

To Mrs. M. J. S..... 


To Sister Ambrose. 

To Sister Matilda. 

True Sympathy. 

Up the Susquehanna. 


79 
38 
62 
63 
84 
45 

80 
91 
53 


32 

33 
10 
96 
59 
20 
24 
23 
85 
56 
51 
23 
75 
43 
89 
58 


IX 





































LYRICS AND RHYMES 


1 


Marywood 

Our hearts are thine, sweet Marywood, 

We love thy sacred walls; 

Here Inspiration walks with us 
Through silent, sunlit halls. 

We love thy flower-girded walks, 

Thy fields and groves of green; 

The vales and dells and distant hills 
That from thy heights are seen. 

Chorus 

O Marywood, sweet source of hope, 

In thee our hearts abide; 

From Wisdom’s fountain here bright streams 
Through distant fields shall glide, 

To satisfy the thirsty world, 

And spread God’s glory wide. 

All hail to thee, fair Marywood, 

Sweet memories round thee cling; 

Of all thy triumphs in the past 
Today we fondly sing. 

But oh, more proudly do we point 
To glory and to fame, 

That through unending ages shall 
Immortalize thy name. 


2 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


God smile on thee, sweet Marywood, 

God bless thy sacred shrine! 

May Heaven’s halo crown thy brow 
And living bays be thine! 

Long may thy voice from this fair Mount 
A holy cause proclaim; 

Long may thy beacon light shine out 
To glorify God’s name! 


Our Bishop 

(A Jubilee Acrostic) 

Michael, great chief of the angels, 

Invincible leader behold! 

Confidingly now we approach thee, 

Heart eager our prayers are retold. 

Angel of might and of mercy, 

Ever our shield and defense, 

Lo! how our hymns are ascending, 

Joyous as love’s sweet incense. 

Our prayers and our hymns, our heart-pleadings 
Have fervently rung around God’s throne, 

Naught else to obtain save the favor 
He joys to bestow on his own. 

O Michael, we ask for that favor, 

Bright angel, we seek it through thee, 

As a jubilee gift for our Bishop, 

None other deserves more than he. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


3 


A Stone from Cana of Galilee 

A stone from Cana sent me!! 

A stone from dear old Galilee! 

No treasure do I hold more dear, 

Tell this to him who sent it here. 

Rare gifts have come from other lands, 
But I, with far more eager hands, 

Now grasp the stone from Galilee, 

It means so much, so much to me. 

I hold it close and think again 
Of how when Jesus walked with men, 

He came to bless the Marriage feast, 

He, Son of God and true High Priest. 
And when His mother sitting there, 
Breathed in His ear her earnest prayer, 
He showed mankind His power divine 
And changed the water into wine. 

As Jesus passed along the way, 

He sanctified this stone that day; 

Perhaps it kissed the mother’s feet, 

Who walked beside Him, calm and sweet. 
Diamonds may have the power to thrill 
Some hearts, so give them where you will. 
But oh! far rather would I own 
This precious, holy Cana stone. 


4 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Bishop Brennan 

We gaze upon the purple robe, 

The mitre and the ring, 

And try to measure in our mind 
The honor each will bring. 

We look upon the crosier, too, 

In consecrated hand, 

And think what awe and reverence 
Its presence will command. 

Joy pulses through the eager throng 
And thrilling voices raise 
Within the vast cathedral walls 
A hymn of prayer and praise. 

And it is meet thanksgiving now 
Ascend to God's high throne, 

The bishop consecrated here 
Is one we long have known. 

There is no room for selfish fear 
Forbidding us rejoice 
When we behold this friend, revered, 
A shepherd of God’s choice. 

For oh! it is unthinkable 
That in a soul so great, 

New dignities could in the least 
Its loyalty abate. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


5 


What Bishop Brennan ever was 
He is and e’er will be— 

Protector, father and true friend 
Of frail humanity. 

Long years before Rome spoke, we heard 
His voice ring o’er the wold 

Recalling lambs that strayed away, 

Back to the one true fold. 

Long years before Rome spoke, his zeal 
Outreaching all confines, 

Was such that it could never be 
Bound in by parish lines. 

Then nothing can restrict our joy, 

Let earnest prayers ascend; 

Long live our holy bishop! 

Long live our loyal friend! 


Herself 

The troublesome pronoun was ever 
And always the bane of my life, 

But one thing Ij’m sure of, and that is 
Herself means an Irishman’s wife. 



6 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Mayor Durkan 

If you have an ear artistic, 

If you like a pleasing voice, 

You will meet with lots of people, 

Who will make your heart rejoice, 

You may hear a forceful speaker 
In most any hall; 

But when talking is required, 

Mayor Durkan beats them all. 

You are rather fond of reason, 

And of reasoning men, you say; 

Well you’re apt to find some scattered 
More or less along the way; 

For we all know brainy people, 

Though their number may be small; 

But when logic is required, 

Mayor Durkan beats them all. 

I am sure you like live wires, 

And it does you good to meet 

With a chap so dead in earnest, 

That the grass can’t touch his feet, 

Wide awake and cheerful workers, 

You will find both great and small; 

But when skill is to be measured 
Mayor Durkan beats them all. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


7 


He is honorable and honest, 

To the poor man’s interest true; 
And he is the greatest terror 
That the grafters ever knew. 
Gold nor silver cannot buy him 
For the right he’ll stand or fall, 
And when justice is in question 
Mayor Durkan beats them all. 


God^s Priest 

We knew you as a loyal friend, 

Just, patriotic, brave, 

One who would sacrifice his life 
Another’s life to save. 

But now we know you as a priest 
To you we may confide 
The welfare of immortal souls 
For whom the God Man died. 

We see in you another Paul 

To spread abroad God’s glory, 
Another John to iterate 

The gospel’s sweetest story, 

Another Christ to multiply 
For us the Sacred Feast 
To wash the sin stains from our souls, 
For now you are God’s priest. 



8 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


At Father Lally^s Tomb 

Rejoice, O heart of Wilmington! 

Your kindness is repaid; 

The relics of a saint beneath 
This willow tree are laid. 

Rejoice, O heart of Wilmington! 

Your soil is sanctified; 

But old Saint Joseph’s grieves because 
Her prayers have been denied. 

She grieves because the tomb of him, 

Once deemed her very own, 

Should be so far from those who long 
His sterling worth have known. 

But though you hide his relics here 
Mid statues fair and flowers, 

The memory of his holy life, 

O Wilmington, is ours. 

You knew him not in his fair youth 
When filled with fiery zeal, 

He drew cold hearts to Christ and made 
The fervent still more leal. 

God-like, but oh! so human, too; 

Most humble yet sublime: 

With him to dazzling heights of faith 
Our feeble minds could climb. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


9 


An unpretentious orator, 

At will he swayed the throng; 

We laughed with him, we wept with him, 
Loved good and hated wrong. 

In all our joys he, too, rejoiced 
And in our deepest grief 

The sympathy of his strong heart 
Failed not to bring relief. 

A Winters tells you of his work; 

In glowing words he paints 

The picture of a grand career 
Co-equal with the saints. 

His is not fulsome eulogy; 

And could O’Reilly speak, 

He, too, would sound abroad his praise 
In language far from weak. 

The merdory of his every word 
Saint Joseph’s still reveres; 

The grand example of his life 
Was hers for forty years. 

Unparalleled devotion from 
The one who loved him best, 

Here made the closing of his life 
An evening of sweet rest. 


10 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The heart of Connelly clung to him 
And fondly sympathized 

With every tender memory 
The old apostle prized. 

Here will this loyal kinsman kneel 
Oft times at evening fall, 

And think with pride of our dear saint 
Who won the heart of all. 

And gentle nuns will teach the youth 
He loved so tenderly 

To pray beside his marble tomb 
Beneath the willow tree. 

Then keep his relics, Wilmington, 

We welcome Heaven’s will; 

For Father Lally’s spirit lives 
In old Saint Joseph’s still. 


To a Bride 

May He who blessed the marriage feast 
At Cana long ago, 

On this your holy wedding-day, 

His choicest gifts bestow. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


11 


Pride of Peru 

Light of America! Pride of Peru! 

Blest be the land where this lovely Rose grew! 
Lima can boast of none fairer than thou, 

Queen of the cloister, before thee we bow. 

Well may Peru still remember with pride 
Angels proclaimed thee their King’s lovely bride. 

Chosen by God as the Rose of His Heart, 

Teach us, thy clients, love’s beautiful art; 

Teach us to build in our hearts a pure throne 
Where this great Monarch may reign there alone. 
Teach us to love Him as thou didst, sweet Rose, 
Always to find in His Heart our repose. 


Opaque 

He read in her presence: it wasn’t polite, 

And so she just purposely stood in his light. 

“A much better door than a window you’d make,” 
He said, “Miss Eileen, do you know you’re opaque?” 
Her face flushed as bright as a cup of red wine, 
“Don’t call me opaque, Mr. Thomas O’Brien.” 
Master Thomas stood up and the paper fell down: 
“There isn’t a man or a woman in town 
Who doesn’t know well that the fault isn’t mine, 
That instead of opaque I can’t call you O’Brien.” 



12 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Archbald Spirit 

{Reverently inscribed to “Pother Tom”) 

Every town and every hamlet 
Has a spirit all its own, 

Has a living, deathless spirit 
That belongs to it alone; 

And the citizens who dwell there 
By this spirit shall be known. 

Though we know the angel’s beauty 
Human art cannot portray, 

Men have imaged them on canvas 
In their own weak mortal way. 
Would someone could paint the spirit 
Of a dear old town today! 

Could someone with brush or pencil 
Make us really visualize, 
Archbald’s Spirit as we know it, 
Could it fail to please our eyes? 
Placed in any competition 

Would it not receive the prize? 

God must love the Archbald Spirit, 
Free and friendly, just and kind, 
Humorous, but not sarcastic, 

To the faults of others blind,— 
Just the very kind of spirit 

This old world is glad to find. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


13 


A Communion Prayer to Mary 

O Mary dear, your heart rejoiced 
When shepherds came to see 
And worship the sweet Infant Whom 
You loved so tenderly. 

And when the holy Magi came 
You welcomed them with joy 
And gratefully accepted all 

They brought your precious Boy. 

O Mary, when today before 
The altar-rail I kneel 
To meet sweet Jesus, you will share 
The joy my heart must feel. 

But e’er He comes, my Mother dear, 
Please help me to prepare 
This heart, that it may be for Him 
A cradle pure and fair. 

May I not hope that you will come 
To help me entertain 
Your Holy Child, and plead with Him 
Still longer to remain? 

O, teach me how I may obtain 
His favors for my friends— 

To pay my debt of gratitude 
My heart on Him depends. 


14 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Help me to listen reverently 
To all that He will say, 

And suffer naught to mar the joy 
Of my Communion Day. 


Saint Christopher 

Great patron of tourists, 
Christ Bearer, we pray 

That you will protect us 
And guide us this day. 

Be with us dear pilot, 

And with your strong arm 

Ward off every danger 

And shield us from harm. 

On your devotion 

The Christ Child relied; 

You lovingly bore Him 
Safe over the tide. 

For his sake all pilgrims 
Were favored by you; 

Great Titan of Christians, 

O care for us too. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


15 


Seat or Wisdom 

When doubts obscure God’s sunlight 
Our hearts will turn to you, 

O Mary, Seat of Wisdom; 

Then let your smile shine through. 

When others come for guidance 
Who fain would walk aright, 

O Seat of Wisdom, show us 
Your clear, unerring light. 

When by the way uncertain 
And sick at heart we stand, 

O Mary, Seat of Wisdom, 

Reach down and clasp our hand. 

We cannot stray from Jesus 
While we walk by your side; 

O Mary, Seat of Wisdom, 

Forever be our guide. 


16 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Easter Day 

The winter snows have vanished. 
The grass and trees are green; 

The flowers in Easter dresses 
Add beauty to the scene, 

And all the silvery streamlets 
That play around the leas 

Laugh out to see the lilies 
Coquetting in the breeze. 

A million merry songsters 
Along the hedges throng, 

And high above the others 
We hear the robin’s song. 

The April sunlight glitters 
Like gold across the lake; 

The chiming of the church bells 
All languid souls awake. 

O why should we be silent? 

Or why should we be sad ? 

The skies are bright above us, 

And all the world is glad. 

Then bury all dissension 
And cast all fears away; 

Thank God that we are living, 
And this is Easter Day. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


17 


Mother^ Birthday 

The festal that I love is here, 

Your natal day, 

And on your brow, my mother dear, 

This crown I lay. 

My own sweet queen, you now shall reign 
From morn till eve, 

And all I have or can obtain, 

You shall receive. 

No earthly gift, my queen desires; 

Full well I know 

That all her happiness requires 
From God must flow. 

His gifts are all at my command, 

For I believe 

He longs to give; I ask Him, and 
Forthwith receive. 

Then what you most desire, express, 

And I shall pray 

That it and all that’s good shall bless 
Your natal day. 


18 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


He Is Risen 

Triumphant Alleluias 

Resound throughout the skies; 

From eartlTs remotest corner, 

The thrilling notes arise. 

The birds in every forest 
Take up the joyous song, 

And every stream and streamlet 
The melody prolong: 

He is risen! He is. risen ! 

Let it echo near and far; 

Christ has triumphed, death is conquered, 
Heaven’s portals stand ajar. 

The fragrant Easter lilies 
Their glowing faces raise, 

And from their hearts waft skyward 
The incense of sweet praise. 

Before the early dawning 

Had tipped their rims with gold, 

The zephyr, sweeping downward, 

The Easter tidings told: 

“Then awake, awake, fair lilies! 

Let all thy censers swing; 

He is risen ! He is risen ! 

Death is conquered, Christ is King!” 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


19 


She and I 

Now, this is the way 
She was dressed the day 
That she and I went out to play : 

In a gown of blue 
That was far from new, 

And a brown straw hat that was shabby too; 
Unribboned her hair, 

Her feet were bare— 

But she didn’t mind, and I didn’t care. 

And this is the way 
That she looked the day 
That she and I went out to play : 

Each cheek like a rose, 

A wee freckled nose, 

A strawberry mouth, as one might suppose; 
She was blue-eyed and fair 
Bright red was her hair— 

But she didn’t mind, and I didn’t care. 

And this is the way 
That she talked the day 
That she and I went out to play : 

“Let me be the queen 
On this throne of green, 

And you play the clown we saw in the scene.” 
Now some may declare 
The game wasn’t fair—- 
But she didn’t mind, and I didn’t care. 


20 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


And even today 

The same game we play, 

The queen gives the orders, the clown has to play, 
And now she is dressed 
In the richest and best, 

That her hat is a wonder is freely confessed, 

My friends all declare 
That the game isn’t fair— 

But she doesn’t mind, and why should I care? 


To a Notice 

The richest robe that e’er was worn 
By any earthly queen, 

With priceless jewels glittering from 
Each fold of costly sheen, 

Could never tempt the loyal child 
Of Heaven’s Queen to part, 
From this blue livery that marks 
The Servants of her Heart. 

And oh! may you who now receive 
Her holy habit here, 

Revere and cherish it through life 
And count naught else more dear. 
Yes, glory in the robe you wear, 
Thrice happy little nun, 

The Servant of Christ’s Mother and 
The Bride of her dear Son. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


21 


God Reward the Doctor 

May God reward the doctor 
Who is the slave of all; 

In daylight and in darkness, 

He answers every call. 

No time for relaxation 
Has he, no time for rest, 

And yet how few are ready 
To rise and call him blest. 

May God reward the doctor! 

His aid to all extends, 

The weak and the repulsive 
He willingly befriends. 

He shuns no hopeless cases 

To shield his own good name, 
Though when death claims its victim, 
The doctor gets the blame. 

May God reward the doctor 
Whose sympathetic voice, 

Whose smile so bright and kindly 
Can make the sick rejoice. 

Saints Damian and Cosmas 
Unite with us and pray, 

The debt we owe the doctor 
Our just God will repay. 


22 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Heart or Mary j s Son 

The Heart that loved me first, I love, 

The Heart of Mary's Son, 

Who thought of me and cared for me 
Long ere life had begun; 

The Heart that looked from Calvary 
Adown the weary years, 

To mark if I would pity Him, 

Would share with Him my tears. 

O changeless Heart of Mary's Son, 

Behold the heart that you have won! 

Sweet home of Peace, Love’s fountain-head, 
Apart from Thee all joy is dead. 

The Heart of Mary’s Son, I love. 

Her Son, Who understands 

As no one else, the heart I give 
To Him through Mary’s hands. 

Though others may misjudge and doubt 
To Him all things are known; 

He reads the secrets of the heart 
That throbs for Him alone. 

O changeless Heart of Mary’s Son, 

Behold the heart that you have won! 

Sweet home of Peace, Love’s fountain-head, 
Apart from Thee all joy is dead. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


23 


To Mrs. M. J. S. 

Bright as the Seraph pure that bows 
Before the throne of light, 

O happy soul, you stand arrayed 
In fair Baptismal white. 

Were it not for the bonds of clay 
That hold you captive here, 

All unabashed you might this day 
Before your God appear. 

But He would test your love still more 
In exile let you live, 

Till of your loyalty to Him 
Still greater proofs you give. 

O may your fair Baptismal robe 
Unsullied still remain, 

Until you stand before His throne 
Without a blot or stain. 


To Laurence 

May Jesus on your wedding day, 

His richest gifts impart; 

And may he keep you and your bride 
Close to His Sacred Heart. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


To First Communicants 

Long years ago in Bethlehem 
When Jesus was a Child, 

And nestled in the tender arms 
Of Mary, undefiled, 

A shepherd’s little daughter came 
To see God’s lovely Boy, 

And soon the stable cave became 
Her one great source of joy. 

One day the Child was so entranced 
By Jesus’ baby charms 
That she pleaded for permission 
To hold Him in her arms. 

Then Mother Mary looked at her 
With pleasure in her face, 

As reverently the maiden clasped 
The Child in fond embrace. 

With ever growing love and joy 
She pressed Him to her heart, 

And fondly whispered, “Jesus dear, 
How kind and sweet Thou art!” 
And Mary whispered to her, “Child, 
Ask Jesus for the grace 
Your own young heart with all its hopes 
Within His Heart to place.” 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


25 


Ask Him to bless and shield from harm 
Those who are dear to you; 

All that you ask for He will give.” 

And Mary’s words were true. 

With trusting heart the little maid 
The promises believed; 

And great and wondrous were the gifts 
Which she that day received. 

Dear little First Communicants, 

Such favors wait for you; 

For in your souls you soon will hold 
The Child of Mary too; 

And when the vested priest draws near 
To place Him in your heart, 

Then whisper like the Hebrew maid 
“Jesus, how sweet Thou art!” 

Oh, ask our Blessed Mother now, 

To teach you what to say 

To her dear little Jesus on 

Your first Communion Day. 

I know she will remind you then 
To pray for everyone; 

Whoever tried to teach you how 
To love her precious Son. 


26 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


You cannot dwell on earthly thoughts 
While she is near to you: 

You’ll pray for your dear parents and 
For other loved ones, too. 

Then, little first communicants, 

Will you not ask that I— 

That all of us may have the grace 
In Jesus’ arms to die? 


Carbondale 

Again I hail sweet Carbondale 

Where once my heart found peace and pleasure 

Again I raise my eyes to gaze 

On scenes my soul will ever treasure. 

O good Saint Rose, your fond heart knows 
, How vividly I still remember, 

The friends so dear who taught me here, 

The friends I left one bright September. 

Again I hail sweet Carbondale 

And many friendly voices greet me; 

But oh! I miss in times like this, 

Those who no more on earth shall meet me. 

How small has grown the band well known, 

Well loved in happy days departed; 

More dear they are today by far, 

For time has proved them loyal-hearted. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


27 


On Golgotha 

If I had stood on Golgotha 
That sad, sweet day, 

Had heard the blood from God’s kind heart 
Drop on the clay. 

Should I have died of grief, or turned 
Grief less away? 

If I had stood on Golgotha 
The day He died, 

Should I have been with Magdalen 
At Mary’s side, 

Or with the cruel crowd that mocked 
Him crucified ? 

My soul, where dost thou stand today? 
What dost thou do? 

Art thou like John and Magdalen 
Still firm and true, 

Or for some selfish gain, wouldst thou 
His death renew? 

“They know not what they do,” He said; 
And had they known, 

They might have loved Him more than thou, 
More kindness shown. 

Thou often hast and often may 
Thy King disown. 


28 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Then go, my soul, to Golgotha, 
And on that steep 
With Mary and the faithful few 
Thy vigil keep; 

And lest thou fail again, stay there 
And pray and weep. 


Easter Morning Early 

The sun was dancing in the sky 
On Easter morning early; 

A little lamb got up and brushed 
His coat so soft and curly, 

And as he sallied out to get 
Some dainty April clover, 

He met a rabbit, dressed in white, 

With pink ears lopping over. 

“A joyous Easter!” cried the lamb; 

“The same to you!” said Bunny, 
Then added, “Don’t you think the sun 
Is acting very funny?” 

The two stood still and watched old Sol; 

It really was entrancing 
To see him in the eastern sky 
On Easter morning dancing. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


29 


And soon a gosling came along 
In wond’rous green attire, 

The very kind of Easter suit 
The English now admire. 

And with the gosling was a chick, 
Arrayed in fluffy yellow, 

You take my word, he really was 
A darling little fellow. 

Then on the hilltop stood the four, 
Chick, gosling, lamb and bunny; 

They wouldn’t miss the fun they had 
For any sum of money. 

But you, my boy, were fast asleep, 

And so were you, my girly; 

How could you see the bright sun dance 
On Easter morning early? 


Marriage Greetings 

May the holy Guests of Cana, 

Sweet Jesus and His Mother, 

On this day bestow a blessing 
Surpassing every other: 

May they change life’s tasteless water 
Into life-giving wine, 

May they make all love that’s human 
Eternal and divine. 



30 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Long Island's Winter Dress 

Beautiful is old Long Island 
When in winter garb arrayed; 

Wonderful the transformation 

Of each grand old grove and glade. 

Every hill and every valley 

Wears a mantle dazzling white, 

And a spotless carpet covers 

Ice-bound streams and lakes from sight. 

Fairy-like the winter frettings 
That bedeck the bosky lea; 

Heaven-like the decorations 

That transform each swaying tree. 

Summer in her golden glory 

Shows us nothing half so fine 

As the snow-adorned old cedar, 

Arbor-vitae, spruce and pine. 

Now the holly berries glisten, 

And the red poinsettas glow 

Bright in every shining casement 

Through which strains of music flow. 

Though in road, in lane and by-way 
Banks of snow o’erflow the walls, 

Still we meet with merry gatherings 
In the homesteads and the halls. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


31 


For the happy-hearted sportsmen 
On their snow-shoes or on skis, 

Come along to sing the praises 

Of the splendid snow-clad trees. 

But, alas! for luckless tourists, 

For the lovers of the sleigh, 

And for all who do not relish 
Fair obstructions in their way. 

Such as these can see no beauty 
In Long Island’s robe of white. 

Pity them and all who like them 
Suffer from defective sight. 

Go and tell them that in Heaven 

There are scenes like this, we know, 

Else the angels would fly earthward 
When Long Island vests in snow. 


Acrostics 

Agatha. 

Agatha is merry, 

Generous, and very 
Affectionate and kind, 
Thoughtful, sweet, forgiving, 
Happy, hopeful, living 
According to God’s mind. 



32 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Wilkes-Barre Square 

If you come out with me 
When the weather is fair, 
Pleasant sights you will see 
On the Wilkes-Barre Square. 

No old women you’ll meet; 

They are all young and fair 
And remarkably sweet 

On the Wilkes-Barre Square. 

Now the skirts are all short, 

And so also, the hair, 

For Dame Fashion holds court 
On the Wilkes-Barre Square. 

The old lady so kind 

That I used to meet there, 

I no longer can find 

On the Wilkes-Barre Square. 

You may think it a joke, 

But I really declare, 

That I miss the old folk 

On the Wilkes-Barre Square. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


33 


To a Baby 

Welcome to this world of ours, 

Little one! 

Tis a land of thorns and flowers, 

Shade and sun; 

But I trust that you will ever 

Gather flowers and endeavor 

To walk always in God’s bright 
Wholesome light. 

With unfeigned delight I greet you, 

And I pray 

You may cheer the souls who meet you 
On life’s way. 

May you be to all a pleasure, 

Be in truth a God-sent treasure! 

May there mingle no alloy 
With your joy! 

Little One, may Heaven bless you 
Every day! 

May God’s holy love possess you! 

Thus I pray. 

If the touchstone in the story 

Of your life is God’s great glory, 

He will be your heart’s best Friend 
At the end. 


34 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


A Musical Event 

At early dawn, the other day, 

In that old tree across the way 
A musical event occurred: 

’Twas managed by a mocking bird 
Who advertised a concert there, 

And every bird from everywhere 
Came flocking to the apple tree 
To help along the minstrelsy. 

Fair birds of every hue and size 
That Audubon might recognize. 

Lark, robin, wren and bobolink 
Were at their very best I think. 

The oriole, in colors gay, 

The swallow, fallow-chat and jay, 

The whip-poor-will, the chickadee, 
Bluebird and sparrow graced that tree. 

They all looked down at me, and bowed 
So gaily that I laughed out loud. 

And then a very ecstasy 
Of music broke from that old tree. 
Those liquid notes, so sweet and clear 
Would charm the most exacting ear; 
And though their audience was poor 
They sang their very best, I’m sure. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES ’ 


35 


But to my grief, a sudden change 
Made all the music wild and strange. 
A feline fiend, unknown to me 
Had slyly climbed the apple tree, 
And when they saw the fearful thing 
The lovely singers all took wing; 
And I am not afraid to bet 
That some of them are flying yet. 


The Holly Beery Season 

Hail the holly berry season! 

Now the old world thrills with joy, 
Naught can dim the Christmas brightness, 
Naught its gladness can destroy. 

Hail the holly berry season! 

Hear once more the angel’s song ; 

O’er the listening snow-clad mountains 
Rings the anthem sweet and strong. 

Hail the holly berry season! 

God is with us, all is well, 

May the Christmas peace and gladness 
In our hearts forever dwell. 



36 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Little Flower of Jesus 

O little flower of Jesus, 

O blossom pure and fair, 

You flourished in the sunshine 
Of God’s all-loving care 
And pleased Him with the fragrance 
Of your sweet artless prayer. 

Confidingly, sweet Flower, 

You sought to be His bride; 

No earthly charms had power 
To draw you from His side; 
With Him and with Him only 
Your pure heart could abide. 

Look down today, from Heaven 
On those who seek to be 
The spouses of the Bridegroom 
You loved so tenderly; 

Let fall on them the roses 
Of love and loyalty. 

They have, like you, the courage 
To choose the “better part,” 
Teach them, O winsome maiden, 
The sweet and holy art 
Of doing all things solely 

To please His Sacred Heart. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


37 


O pray that from love’s fetters 
They’ll never seek release, 

O pray that their devotion 
May constantly increase 
Until the smile of Mary 

Floods their pure souls with peace. 


Lucky Chubby Luckenbach 

Who is this favorite little chap 
That sleeps and wakes in Plenty’s lap, 

The button on fair Fortune’s cap? 

Lucky Chubby Luckenbach. 

Who comes along like dawn of day 
To scatter sunshine on the way, 

More welcome than the smile of May? 

Lucky Chubby Luckenbach. 

He is an angel in disguise 

With Heaven’s gladness in his eyes; 

In Beauty’s school he’ll take the prize, 

Lucky Chubby Luckenbach. 

He is a blessing now, and pray 

That such he’ll be through life’s long fray, 

That to the end all men may say, 

Lucky Chubby Luckenbach. 



38 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Maid of Toulouse 

We hail thee sweet shepherdess, Maid of Toulouse, 

So child-like and yet so divine; 

Privation and sorrow but served to produce 
More love in that pure heart of thine. 

Chorus 

Sweet Maid of Toulouse, 

No ancient recluse 

Was dearer to Jesus than thou; 

O holy Germaine 

We trust not in vain 

To offer our prayers to thee now. 

Oft leaving thy flock on the wolf-haunted hills 
In care of the Shepherd Divine 

Unharmed thou didst pass through the meres and the rills 
To hear holy Mass in the shrine. 

Chorus 

Though great was the suffering and bitter the grief 
Dear Saint, thou didst have to endure 

Thou didst tender to all in affliction relief 
And ever befriended the poor. 


Chorus 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


39 


Little Bubbles Luckenbach 

Little “Bubbles” Luckenbach, 

How good it is to see 
That thy rank nor fame hath not 
Contrived to weaken thee, 

That thy mission is to cheer 
And hearten souls like me. 

Little “Bubbles” Luckenbach, 

The flowers of the field 
Bloom and die, unconscious of 
The pleasure that they yield; 

But thy power to scatter joy 
From thee is not concealed. 

Little “Bubbles” Luckenbach, 

The world is at thy feet; 

Thou wilt be admired and praised 
By all whom thou will meet, 

May thy heart, despite all this, 
Remain childlike and sweet. 

Little “Bubbles” Luckenbach, 

Within thine eyes I see 
Promises of noble deeds, 

And loyal constancy. 

Thou wilt purify and save 

The throngs that follow thee. 


40 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Saint Brigid 

O, light of old Kill-darra, 

All honor to thy name! 

Saint Brigid, pride of Erin, 

Thy glory we proclaim. 

Not for thy won’drous learning, 
Great patroness of art, 

Does Christian Ireland cherish 
Thy name within her heart. 

Thy works of zeal were countless, 
Thy miracles renowned, 

But more we prize the virtues 
That in thy soul were found. 

So Mary-like in pity, 

So tender and so kind; 

The sorrowful will ever 
In thee a refuge find. 

Thou who didst cling to Jesus 
With deathless, thrilling love, 

O teach us how to value 
His heart all else above! 

Yea, teach us how to suffer 
As thou didst for his sake, 

For Jesus’ cause and glory, 

Each sacrifice to make. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


41 


Heart of Jesus 

Patient Heart of my sweet Jesus, 

Sacred source of grace divine; 

Thou art waiting here to welcome, 

Weak and restless hearts like mine. 

Victim of a love so wond’rous, 

That it holds thee captive here; 

Watching for my tardy coming, 

O forgive me, Jesus dear! 

Ever patient Heart of Jesus, 

I have come to thee at last; 

-Praying that Thou wilt forgive me 
All the coldness of the past. 

Praying Thou wilt ever keep me, 

Close to Thee, sweet Sacred Heart; 

Never more to find my pleasure, 

Jesus, only where Thou art. 


Brigid. 

Brigid is a noble name, 

Round it clings immortal fame; 
Ireland is a source of light 
Guided by this virgin bright; 
Ignorance in sheer defeat 
Dies away at Brigid’s feet. 



42 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


A Social Affair 

(Lovingly inscribed to the Little Girl who likes me second best ) 

Miss Mousey said she’d entertain 
On Wednesday if it didn’t rain, 

She sent her invitations out 
To all the neighbors round about. 

Her own house was so very small 
It wouldn’t hold the guests at all, 

She spread the feast beneath a tree, 

And ’twas a goodly sight to see, 

Miss Mousey knew that it would please 
For most of it was bread and cheese. 

At first appeared Miss Owl in grey 
And Butterfly, extremely gay; 

The next to come was Bumble-bee 
And he went buzzing round the tree. 

Then Frog leaped in, in green and white, 

To tell fish stories all the night, 

His voice was just a little hoarse, 

But no one minded that, of course; 

Miss Lizard came in brilliant red, 

And Rat in drab from tail to head. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


43 


Old Fox and Woodchuck, too, were there, 
The Lady Coon and Doctor Hare. 

Miss Squirrel and Chipmunk came along, 
And Nightingale to sing a song. 

Then who should come but Coleman’s dog 
And seat himself upon a log. 

Miss Mousey feared he’d raise a row 
But he just smiled and said “Bow wow.” 

A Cat named Sam with a violin 
Announced that dancing should begin. 

The air was cool, the moon was bright, 
The young folk danced till broad daylight. 
When sunrise tinged the eastern sky. 

They all shook hands and said good-bye; 
Then Sam the Cat came home, you see, 
And told the whole affair to me. 


To Sister Matilda 

May every holy angel 

Bring something good to thee 
May all the saints send graces 
To bless your jubilee! 

Oh! May the Queen of Heaven 
No gift you ask withhold 
And may sweet Jesus crown you 
With Love’s immortal gold! 



44 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Glorious Saint Joseph 

Ever glorious Saint Joseph, 

Low we bow before thy shrine; 

Foster-father of our Saviour, 

Mary’s spouse, our hearts are thine. 

Jesus and His Mother loved thee, 

In thee fondly placed their trust; 

Well they knew thy worth and wisdom, 
Well they knew thy heart was just. 

Ever it was Jesus’ pleasure 
Thee to honor and obey, 

Ask Him to look kindly on us, 

Plead our cause with Him today. 

Ever glorious Saint Joseph, 

Oft He nestled in thy arms, 

While the angels thronged around thee, 
Wondering at His baby charms. 

He at Bethlehem and Nazareth 
Answered lovingly thy call, 

And we know that next to Mary 
Jesus loved thee best of all. 

Be our advocate Saint Joseph, 

In thy hands our cause we place; 

For we know that God will answer 

When through thee we seek His grace. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


45 


The Shamrock 

Come and look at my treasure. I found it today 
Away down in the shady ravine ; 

From the cold winds of March it was nestled away, 

This fair shamrock of true Irish green. 

I have culled it for one who will prize it full well, 

One who loves every shamrock on earth; 

And the stories are sweet that this trefoil will tell 
Of the lovely green land of his birth. 

But to sorrow akin are the joys of the old, 

And the shamrock I fear will recall 

All the golden days past, and the hearts still and cold 
That he once thought the warmest of all. 

He will bless the fond hand that this treasure bestows, 

Yet I know that his eye will grow dim; 

For the shamrock now grows on the graves that enclose 
Those dear hearts that were loyal to him. 

Still, as green is the emblem of Hope, I shall trust 
It will speak to his heart of the time 

He will meet in the beautiful land of the just 
Those he loved in his own native clime. 

We are all on the very same road that they trod, 

Those heart-cheering smiles we now miss; 

But the shamrocks grow green in the garden of God, 

Where they wait for our coming in bliss. 


46 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Elizabeth Alice 

God bless our Elizabeth Alice! 

A gentle, sweet woman is she; 

And never a queen in her palace 
More graciously kind could be. 

There may be a face you think fairer, 

A voice that you deem is more clear, 

But never has either been rarer, 

Nor either been half so dear. 

It is not the perfect complexion 
Nor classical features we prize, 

Oh, no! ’tis the soul, whose reflection 
Shines out of her timid dark eyes. 

’Tis white as the lily’s pure chalice, 

And warm as the sun’s fruitful rays, 

This heart of Elizabeth Alice, 

A heart that cares naught for my praise. 

A heart that has sympathized ever 
With others in joy and in grief, 

That throbs with the constant endeavor 
To bring to the needy relief. 

May she e’er be a stranger to malice, 

To her may deceit be unknown— 

God bless our Elizabeth Alice, 

And keep her heart close to His own. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


47 


Easter on the Farm 

Though the Easter time is always bright, 
It had a greater charm 

In the golden days of long ago, 

When we were on the farm. 

How the Easter bells ring sweet and clear, 
The lilies blossom white; 

But the bells were sweeter on the farm, 
The flowers still more bright. 

Though the Easter time abounds with joy, 
It isn’t quite the same; 

There was something in the old-time joy, 
That seems to have no name. 

And the glory of those early days 
Can never be surpassed— 

But we know that all would cling to life, 
If youth and health could last. 

Oh! the memory of those morning rides 
Across the wooded hill, 

To the old Saint Francis Xavier Church 
Is dearest to me still! 

For we rode with them, the loyal friends, 
Who made the wondrous charm 

Of the Easter days so long ago, 

When we were on the farm. 


48 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Hempstead House Estate 

I contemplate the glories 

Of the Hempstead House Estate, 

And find myself repeating, 

“Surely Heaven must be great.” 

The all divine Designer 

Can excel a scene like this; 

But it is equalled only 

In the land of endless bliss. 

Then come with me and wander 

Through the fairest land on earth, 

And if you are not soulless, 

You will realize its worth. 

We’ll pass the stately castle, 

Cross the Rhododendron drive, 

And seek the fragrant gardens 

Where the countless roses thrive. 

We’ll view the granite lodges, 

Courses, bridges, drives and caves, 

The dock and winding sea wall 
Where the restless ocean waves. 

The massive gray stone stables, 

Where fair, swift horses dwell; 

The cow-barn, roost and sheep-fold 
Will our admiration swell. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


49 


Down bridle paths we’ll wander 
And explore the mystic cave, 
Admiring distant woodlands 

And the flags that proudly wave. 
In aviaries splendid, 

All made vocal by the song 
Of birds with wondrous plumage, 
We would gladly linger long. 

But something more attractive 
Is awaiting over there, 

Glad welcomes from the kennels, 
Are resounding through the air; 
And on the restful pasture, 

Fair, contented cattle graze, 

That raise their heads to greet us, 
With a mild and gentle gaze. 

But find we such in Heaven, 

Well, our nurse girl told me so, 
When I wore kilts and ringlets, 

In the sweet long, long ago. 

St. George’s famous charger, 

And St. Bernard’s noble pet, 

The cattle in the manger— 

She expects to see them yet. 


50 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


But if you are a skeptic 

And refuse to see in these 
A heavenly resemblance, 

I can still your fancy please; 

For often in the sunlight, 

Yes, and in the twilight late, 

Fve seen some “angels” wand-ring 

Round the Hempstead House Estate. 


A Jubilee Blossom 

One little blossom 
Permit us to place 
In the fair garland 
Intended to grace 
Your glad jubilee; 

All fragrant and rare 
Is this sweet garland 

Of heart-fervent prayer. 
One little blossom 

All glistening with dew, 
One aspiration 

We offer for you: 

Sweet Heart of Jesus, 

On this jubilee 
Draw our dear Sisters 
Still closer to Thee! 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


51 


To M. J. R. 

The eloquence of childhood prayers 
I never knew until 

I heard a dying boy pray thus, 

With gratitude athrill: 

“O, God, be good to every one 
Who has been good to me; 

And be as good to him, dear Lord, 

As You know how to be! 

“Hear all the prayers of each kind soul 
That thinks of me in prayer! 

May those who have been friends of mine 
Your own sweet friendship share!” 

He was a little cripple boy 
Who had been ever such. 

And many sympathized with him 
For he had suffered much. 

But O, my friend! none did for him 
One half so much as you 

Have done for me. A heart so kind 
As yours, he never knew. 

I knelt there listening to his prayer, 

Still mindful of the debt 

That I am powerless to pay 
And you bid me forget. 


52 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


But though my heart would fain comply 
With any wish of yours, 

The memory of Gratitude 
Eternally endures. 

All men must turn in loathing from 
The human heart that can 

Forget the benefits bestowed 
By God or fellow man. 

Long I had pondered how I might 
Requite in some degree, 

The kindness and encouragement 
You freely gave to me. 

But since I heard that dying prayer, 

I’m satisfied to let 

The good God pay, just as He will 
And when He will, that debt. 

And constantly I pray for you 
As that sweet child taught me: 

“Oh! be as good to him, dear Lord., 

As You know how to be.” 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


53 


The Story-Teller 

He was not a famous singer, he could dance with little grace, 

And his playing, all admitted, was extremely commonplace; 

But I can assure you, stranger, if you did not know before, 

Chris Macomb could tell a story that would make you long 
for more. 

Seated in the Judge’s parlor, propped about with cushions 
fair, 

Or enthroned down in the smithy, on a paintless wooden 
chair, 

He could hold his listeners spellbound for a month of days 
or more; 

And he always told you something that you never heard 
before. 

Somehow he secured your interest and he held it from the 
start, 

And he likewise, somehow, managed to secure and hold your 
heart; 

He could make you love his hero and his heroine adore, 

He could make you hate a villain as you never did before. 

As he neared the thrilling climax you would hold your very 
breath, 

And your own life gladly forfeit to prevent the hero’s death. 

Peradventure you were laughing ’ere the very worst was 
o’er— 

Tears and laughter alternating—that is why you longed for 
more. 


54 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


And there was a certain something in each story that he told, 

Drawing souls to God as lambkins are enticed into a fold. 

No one dreamed that he was preaching, dreamed what he 
was working for; 

They just knew Macomb told stories that would make you 
long for more. 

Chris Macomb has gone to Heaven: surely he was welcome 
there, 

For his friends were glad to see him any time and any where. 

I doubt not the joy of Heaven is increased a little more— 

Chris Macomb is telling stories never heard up there before. 


A Jubilee Gift 

If an angel should offer to grant one gift, 

One precious gift to me; 

And I knew the one grace that would crown with joy, 
Your Silver Jubilee; 

If I knew what you need to corriplete your bliss, 

To what your hopes aspire, 

I would claim this fair gift that your heart might have 
Its one supreme desire; 

If the angel appears, and I trust it will, 

I know what I shall do, 

I shall ask for the Key of the Sacred Heart 
And give this key to you. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


55 


Old Days 

Forget the dreamy past, you say; 

Think not of days departed, 

Cease to lament for absent friends, 

The loyal and kind-hearted; 

Destroy the relics that I prize, 

Keep not a faded flow’r 
That might distract the heart or mind 
From this, the present hour. 

Forget the dreamy past, you say? 

Forget the scenes of childhood, 

The hill, the grove, the grassy vale, 

And lake and stream and wildwood; 
Forget the winding way o’er which 
I often rode, together 
With him who taught my soul to love 
Each separate spray of heather. 

With him who quoted Scottish bards 
When crossing o’er the mountain, 
Or softly sang some Celtic lay 

While resting near the fountain. 
Forget that voice—my father’s voice, 
So soothing and so cheerful, 
Opposed, as sunlight is to night, 

To all that’s sad or fearful. 


56 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


And do you bid me dream no more 
Of my own gentle mother? 

Know you such dreams are fraught with joy, 
Surpassing every other? 

Nay, do not tell me to forget 

The lessons that she taught me, 

Nor to forget the dear old days 

With all the good they brought me. 

I do not claim my past knew naught 
Save days of sunny weather— 

Though I rejoiced with those I loved, 

We oft times mourned together; 

But when a grief is past and gone 
Its memory is pleasant: 

Then let the Spirit of the Past 
Still permeate the present. 


To Michael 

In gratitude we fondly pray, 

That God your kindness will repay 
A hundred, thousand fold, 

With joys that ever will increase, 
Contentment, love and holy peace, 
More precious far than gold. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


57 


Civilization 

If civilization means columns of stone, 

And means nothing more, I am ready to own 
Fd rather walk over a stream on a log, 

And live in a hut where the natives love God. 

If great ocean liners and dark submarines 
And motors and air-ships, death-dealing machines, 

I f these spell the word—oh, then let us pray 
That civilization will wither away. 

We’ve telephone systems and radios, too; 

And yet we are forced to admit it is true 
That seldom a message of love or of praise 
Is sent to our God in these civilized days. 

When schools breed dissension, and warfare and greed 
And graft and injustice and hatred of creed , 

Then perish all science and perish all art 

That seeks to drive God from the home and the heart. 


58 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Up the Susquehanna 

Yes, I know you value beauty, 

And appreciate the flow’rs 
That are blooming in abundance 
In this wond’rous world of ours; 
But you have not yet discovered, 

I may venture to presume, 

That ’tis up the Susquehanna 

Where the fairest flowers bloom. 

You have gathered fruit in June time, 
Rich and ripe and rosy, too, 

And no doubt you thought its equal 
On this fair earth never grew; 
Well, my friend, I do not blame you, 
For of course, you could not know, 
That ’tis up the Susquehanna 

Where the reddest berries grow. 

Now, God’s sun cannot be partial, 
When it smiles on all the earth; 
Yet to each it beams the brightest 
O’er the land of his own birth. 

I have traveled to the eastward, 

I have traveled in the West, 

But ’tis up the Susquehanna 

That I find the sun shines best. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


59 


You admire Christian virtue 
In a maiden, I am sure. 

Those who, like the Easter lily, 

Breathe a fragrance sweet and pure, 
By the brave the noble-hearted 
Are respected near and far; 

Ah! ’tis up the Susquehanna 

Where the sweetest maidens are. 

You are fond of honest dealing, 

And your heart goes out to those 
Who would scorn to take advantage 
Of a neighbor, I suppose; 

And you never feel distrustful 

When you know the folks are fair— 
Just go up the Susquehanna 

And you’ll find such people there. 


To Anastasia 

May the Christmas angels sing you 
Sweet canticles of peace; 

May the Christmas joy they bring you 
Eternally increase! 

This is the wish we send you, 

This is the prayer we say, 

May all that’s good attend you 
This blessed Christmas Day! 



60 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


A Welcome 

If you hail from Little Meadows, 

You are welcome here, good friend, 
With the quality of welcome 

That the warmest hearts extend, 

With the quantity of welcome 
That will never know an end. 

If you hail from Little Meadows, 

You have seen the friends I know, 

And the scenes through which I wandered 
In the golden long ago; 

In the peaceful little valley, 

Where the pine and elm grow. 

If you hail from Little Meadows, 

Surely, surely you have seen 
Somewhere there a little maiden, 

Fairer than a dryad queen, 

Who is very fond of walking 
By the willow-girdled stream. 

If you hail from Little Meadows, 

And some tidings thence you bring, 

You are welcome as the flowers 
In the very dawn of spring; 

Yes, thank God, you bear a message,— 
Wide for you the portals swing. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


61 


Sister M. Stella 

(Died January 31, 1912) 

They tell me that she died today, 

The alien’s friend, the gentle nun, 
Who gladly wore the crown of thorns 
Until the golden crown was won. 
She died today; yea, and she died 
Each day for many years, 

But until now I saw no friend 
Bend over her in tears. 

She labored long on Calvary, 

Spouse of the Crucified; 

And now why weep that she has met 
The Bridegroom glorified. 

Why shed these useless tears for her 
Whose triumph was complete, 

Who conquered bravely every foe, 

And never feared defeat? 

Self confident? Nay, in that heart 
There was no single trace 
Of human pride; but oh! how great 
Her trust in God’s free grace. 
Sweet model of humility, 

Well fitted to advise, 

To grasp the truths that baffled oft 
The vain and worldly wise. 


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LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Friend of the alien, they and we 
Will miss your guiding hand; 

And yet, our hearts rejoice that you 
Have reached the Fatherland. 

For you too were an alien here 
Who longed for home and rest, 

Who longed to be with Him you loved 
The first, the last, the best. 


The Rest Cure 

Yes, I must rest for six long months, 
That’s what the doctors said; 

Or else in six short months, Fd rest 
Beside the silent dead. 

I must not use my eyes, they said, 
Because I might go blind; 

And company of any kind 
Would injure me Fd find. 

I could not read, I could not write, 

I could not ride nor walk, 

And finally they said that I 
Must not attempt to talk. 

When I complied with all these rules 
And still my strength was sinking, 

The doctors said I hurt myself, 

They knew I did—by thinking. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


63 


The Seers of Scranton 

You can see more on the mountain, 
But you’re safer in the glen; 

You can go along at random 
If you feel inclined, but then 
It is not an easy matter 
To get on the trail again; 

It is well to have some knowledge 
Of the proper way to go, 

It is well to watch the compass 
And to march a little slow; 

So the seers of Scranton tell us, 

And the seers of Scranton know. 

Now, it isn’t Time, they tell us, 

That makes everybody old, 

And it isn’t Time that causes 

Hearts to grow unkind and cold; 
But in very many cases 
’Tis a fatal love of gold, 

Love of fame or love of pleasure, 

Or some other wretched blight,— 
You cannot enjoy the daylight 
If you do not sleep at night; 

So the seers of Scranton tell us, 

And the seers are always right. 


64 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Happiness will find a harbor 

In the hearts that seek to give, 

In unselfish souls that ever 
For the sake of others live; 

Joy slips from the egotistic 

Just like water from a sieve; 

Kindly hearts are golden channels 

Through which wholesome blessings flow. 
Humble souls are fragrant gardens, 

Where the flowers of Heaven grow; 

So the seers of Scranton tell us, 

And the seers of Scranton know. 


Jubilee Flowers 

My favorite flower I’m sending, , 
To grace your Jubilee; 

I know you’re not expecting, 

A fairer gift from me. 

But O, remember, darling, 

With every separate rose, 

A loving aspiration 

To God’s white altar goes. 

O, may the days that wait you, 

Be formed of rosy hours; 

Each one as fair and fragrant, 

As these fair fragrant flowers. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


65 


Little Clare 

Our little Clare was young and fair 
When first I saw her face; 

We seldom find in one combined 
Such beauty and such grace. 

A winsome child both good and mild, 

With honest, earnest eyes: 

Her smile was bright, her heart was light, 
Though she was strangely wise. 

A child of prayer was little Clare 
And often she was found 

To kneel alone before God’s throne 
In reverence profound. 

Though young in years, few worldly seers 
Knew as she did the price 

Of God’s great love that rules above 
All earth and Paradise. 

Could we expect He would neglect 
A heart so much His own? 

That He would leave her here to grieve 
Before His silent throne? 

Too great her worth for this dark earth 
In which she had no part; 

’Twas meet that she herself should be 
Where she had placed her heart. 


66 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Balthasar at the Crib 

“I hate the Ethiope,” he said, scorn darkening his fine face, 

“And you would leave your own to serve this savage negro 
race? 

Well, sister mine, if you insist that you must be a nun, 

Then I, too, will insist that you become a genteel one.” 

The young girl’s eye indignant flashed, and scarlet burned her 
cheek, 

And yet her voice was strangely calm when she essayed to 
speak : 

“ ’Tis King’s Day, brother; now, at least, all Christians 
should agree; 

I go to see the Christmas Crib, and you will come with me.’ 

They walked in silence to the church; rebellion filled his 
heart, 

Because this sister he so loved preferred the “better part.” 

And oh! how galling was the thought that she should claim 
the place 

God called her to, was far from home, among a pagan race. 

They knelt together at the Crib. Her soul went out in 
prayer, 

While he gazed angrily upon Balthasar’s statue there; 

But soon his own heart questioned him: “Why is it you 
despise 

One whom the Christ Child looks upon with tender loving 
eyes? 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


67 


“Think you the wise Balthasar came an uninvited guest, 

Or that he was less welcome there, less valued than the rest ?” 

The maiden’s prayer was answered then, in that good hour 
of grace, 

Her brother was relenting, yes, she saw it in his face. 

At length he turned and whispered low, “This surely is 
‘Black Art/ 

For that dark statue near the crib, is getting at my heart; 

Do as you will, my sister dear, I’ll not oppose your plan, 

Perhaps God really wants you to serve this Balthasar’s clan.” 

One King’s Day long years after this, we find these two once 
more; 

Both working hard to save men’s souls, upon an alien shore. 

“I thank the Christ Child every day,” she said, “for bringing 
you.” 

The young priest answered: “Don’t forget to thank 
Balthasar too.” 


68 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Sister Jerome 

There was light in her eye, there was hope in her voice, 

And a joy in her heart-winning smile, 

And I felt my faith strengthen, my soul raise to God 
As I lingered by her for a while. 

“I am going/’ she said, “to the shrine of Saint Ann, 

And remember, I’ll pray for you there; 

Though my body grows weaker, my faith is still strong, 

For I’ve tested the power of prayer.” 

“I am going to ask our dear, glorious Saint 
To please loosen the hard, heavy chain 

That now keeps me from working for God and His Cause, 
And I know that I’ll not ask in vain.” 

’Twas the last time I heard the sweet soul-strengthening voice 
Of our whole-hearted Sister Jerome; 

For the Saint heard her prayer—she has loosened the chain 
And has taken her fond client Home. 

There are tears in the eyes that now gaze on that face, 

In its -white, deathly calm, but still sweet; 

And a strong hope goes thrilling again through my heart, 
And a joy that is almost complete. 

For I know she is waiting to welcome us all 
To the sweet Sacred Heart of our Lord; 

We have seen her life’s work, and we know that she now 
Must be reaping the promised reward. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


69 


Yes, “The harvest is great and the laborers few”: 
This she realized well, and her zeal 

To encourage vocations grew stronger each day 
And her influence thousands will feel. 

O. how many a Priest as he bends o’er the Host 
When he offers the sweet Sacrifice, 

Will remember the one who first taught him to see 
And to value the “Pearl without price.” 

And how many a nun as she kneels in the choir 
And tenderly murmurs her vows, 

Will recall the dear friend who helped her respond 
To the call of her Master and Spouse. 

Yes, the seed she has planted continues to grow, 
She will welcome its fruit to God’s Home; 

She will pray for us there as she prayed for us here, 
Our own sainted Sister Jerome. 


Here^s to Nellie 

She’s a vision of beauty, a dream of delight, 

She’s the sun of our day and the star of our night. 

She has charmed Williamsport with her exquisite grace, 
With her heart-winning smile and her angelic face, 

No wonder she’s loved by the old and the young, 

For love sleeps in her heart and wit rests on her tongue. 



70 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Saint Patrick's Day Greeting 

(Rev. P. F. Broderick) 

Our pastor dear, with joy we hail 
Your patron’s holy feast; 

And though of all your flock we are 
The humblest and the least, 

We know that you will not reject 
The offering we bring, 

That you will lend a willing ear 
To every song we sing. 

And lo! the gift we bring excels 
The fairest flower that grows; 

’Tis dearer to the Celtic heart 
Than any regal rose; 

This symbol of a triune God 
That great Saint Patrick blest, 

We love, and well we know, you love 
The little shamrock best. 

The beacon fire near Tara Hill, 
Enkindled by his hand, 

Has sent its shafts of living light 
Across our own dear land; 

And it is meet that we should sing 
This great apostle’s praise, 

That we should deem this holy feast 
A very king of days. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


71 


And while we sound your patron’s praise 
We will not fail to pray 
That he will multiply your joy 
A thousand times today; 

Yea, for his power is just as great 
As in the days of old, 

And at his word God will repay 
Your zeal a million fold. 


At Marywood 

We spent one golden autumn day 
At Marywood, 

And all too soon it passed away 
At Marywood, 

For when the heart is young and gay 

The rosy hours will not delay. 

In vain we sought their course to stay 
At Marywood. 

We stood to see the sun arise 
At Marywood, 

The east was tinged with gorgeous dyes 
At Marywood, 

And when you turned your glowing eyes 

To mark the glory of the skies, 

How close we seemed to Paradise 
At Marywood. 



72 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The trees were crowned with red and gold 
At Mary wood, 

We noted not of death they told 
At Mary wood, 

And as around the groves we strolled 

You joyed such splendor to behold 

And smiled alike on young and old 
At Marywood. 

Alas! too soon the hours fled 
At Marywood, 

The sun went down in clouds of red 
At Marywood, 

Though now the sky is dark as lead 

And you are sleeping with the dead 

I still remember all you said 
At Marywood. 

Full well your words my heart has weighed 
At Marywood, 

And for your soul I oft have prayed 
At Marywood, 

Sweet thoughts of you must still pervade 

My life—and oh! with Heaven's aid, 

I’ll keep the promise that I made 
At Marywood. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


73 


The Golden Jubilee 

Bright and varied as the flowers, 
Crowning all the fragrant bowers 
Of the ever lovely May, 

Be the gifts that Heaven sends thee, 
And the joy that now attends thee 
On this happy festal day. 

Lily, rose and fair carnation, 

All the flora’s sweet creation, 

In the woodland and the lea, 
Symbolize the graces glowing, 

Gifts that God is now bestowing 
On the Golden Jubilee. 

Fifty years of faithful serving 
In God’s household are deserving 
Of the “hundred-fold” reward: 
Each desire anticipating, 

Lo! the King of Kings is waiting, 
All thy wishes to accord. 

Friends and Sisters, now rejoicing, 
Tender love and triumph voicing, 
Gather round to pray for thee. 

Our petitions are ascending, 

That the joy may prove unending 
Which surrounds thy Jubilee. 


74 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Her Sweetest Charm 

I envy not Roberta Rose 

Her beautiful complexion, 

Nor azure eyes wherein we catch 
The summer sky’s reflection. 

I envy not Roberta Rose 

Her stately, graceful form, 

Her dainty foot, nor slender hand, 
So white and Arm and warm. 

I envy not her soft low voice 
Nor sweet enticing smile; 

But one thing I do envy her, 

And envy all the while. 

Yes, I would give all I possess, 
All valuables in sight, 

If only they could buy for me 
Roberta’s appetite. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


75 


To Sister Ambrose 

Was there ever yet an alien 
Homeward bound, 

Who rejoiced not at each milestone 
That he found; 

Who was ever prone to linger, 

Or to roam 

From the safest, shortest pathway 
Leading home? 

Was there ever yet an alien 
On the way 

To his Fatherland whose spirit 
Was not gay? 

Could he not foretaste the welcome 
At the end, 

And in fancy see his father's 
Hand extend? 

Friend of mine, we too are aliens 
Pressing on 

To the Home where many other 
Friends have gone. 

There are no attractions for us 
On the way, 

And no siren can entice us 
To delay. 


76 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


So it is your heart rejoices 
Secretly, 

And bids welcome to your joyous 
Jubilee. 

Five and twenty silver milestones 
Marked the way 

You have traveled since your holy 
Bridal day. 

Ah! you noticed not the roughness 
Of the road 

That was leading to our Father’s 
Sweet abode; 

But with hopeful heart you murmured 
Words of cheer 

To the less courageous pilgrims 
Walking near. 

And how often you assisted 
Some weak soul, 

Who without your aid might never 
Reach the goal, 

Acts of love by all forgotten 
Save the Guide, 

He the unseen Guide who never 
Left your side. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


77 


Well He noted every action, 

Word and thought! 

Well He knew it was His interest 
That you sought. 

And your happy heart is conscious 
That his He 

Who now blesses your most holy 
Jubilee. 

In the future, golden milestones 
You will meet; 

May your path be hedged with flowers, 
Fresh and sweet! 

May the journey still be pleasant 
To the close, 

Till within our Home in Heaven 
You repose! 


78 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Carpenter's Son 

Scorn not the plebian you may meet on the way 
Because you may fear what the wealthy will say, 

And think e’er you slight e’en the lowliest one 
Of Him who was known as the Carpenter’s Son, 

Of those whom He honored in old Galilee, 

The fishermen found at their work by the sea; 

Yea, think what a tent maker did for us all, 

Was e’er a patrician so great as Saint Paul ? 

Strange fancies surge o’er me, pathetic and sweet, 

When toil-weary workmen I happen to meet; 

And oft, as I watch them, I wonder which one 
Resembles most closely the Carpenter’s Son, 

Whom often I picture in humble attire, 

And toiling as they for a day’s paltry hire, 

Oh, surely, His sympathy still is with those 
Who cheerfully follow the life that He chose. 

Then give the plebian your sunniest smile 
And when you can cheer him, just tarry awhile; 

A word or a look or a clasp of the hand 

May give him new strength and the courage to stand. 

Note not that his garments are ragged and poor, 

But think of the trials he has to endure, 

And think of the comforts that he. must forego, 

The joys and the pleasure his heart may not know. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


79 


Recoil not in fear of incurring disgrace 
On meeting a man of a lowlier race; 

The blood of patricians may course through your veins, 
But is your heart larger or have you more brains ? 

Is something not wanting in heart and in brain 
Of him who exhibits the trace of distain 
For one who resembles the Carpenter’s Son 
Whose heart holds the record of all that is done? 


The Invitation 

I’d really like to see you, Phil, 

I’ve heard your praises sung until 
I think of you against my will. 

Now, Phil, it may not seem just right 
For me to dream of you each night, 

And yet I do, “Angel of Light.” 

If you’re as clever and as gay, 

Or half as kind as people say, 

Your like has never passed this way. 

And if you’re only half as good 
As some folks think you are, I would 
Just canonize you if I could. 

Then will you come to see me soon 
At least before Tomorrow noon? 

For people change just like the moon. 



80 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Silver Jubilee 

To Father Robert 

As well attempt to check the winds 
That sweep across the ocean, 

Or e’en endeavor to control 
The billows’ restless motion; 

As well command the rain-charged clouds 
Withhold the summer shower, 

Or to forbid the vernal earth 
To send forth leaf or flower, 

As to expect the human heart 
To hide the strong emotion 
That springs from deathless gratitude, 
The root of all devotion. 

In vain the humble heart may strive 
To hide its own great glory, 

The more it seeks to silence men 
The more they tell the story. 

And thus it is that each fond soul 
That knows your worth rejoices, 

And now, despite your well known wish, 
Your praise and triumph voices, 

It sings of fruitful lustrums spent 
In hard and ceaseless labor, 

Of countless sacrifices made 
To help a soul-sick neighbor. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


81 


In vain man seeks to estimate 
The good you have effected 
To further God’s great cause, to which 
Your efforts were directed; 

The human mind can never .gauge 
The work of such a pastor, 

Nor know what recompense awaits 
True servants of the Master. 

Nay, God and God’s great angels know 
The value of each hour, 

In which you freely exercised 
The holy priestly power. 

Though vain may be our songs of praise, 

Not so the prayers we tender, 

That this, your silver jubilee, 

Be unsurpassed in splendor. 

We pray that in the years to come 
Your joy may not diminish, 

That strength and length of years be yours 
The golden crown to finish; 

That your kind heart may realize 
True peace and holy pleasure, 

And even in this life possess 

The one great, priceless treasure. 


82 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


PlTTSTON 

(Reverently inscribed to Rev. Dr. P. C. Winters ) 

O, the summer time in Pittston, 

Is the best I ever knew; 

And the winter time in Pittston, 

Is as fine and pleasant too. 

It is charming there in springtime, 

When the leaves are getting green, 

And we all admit in autumn 
It presents a lovely scene. 

Bless the girls of dear old Pittston, 

Every one of them is fair, 

Every one of them is faithful, 

“God protect them!” is my prayer; 

But the finest thing about them 
Is that sweet, confiding smile 

That appears to be the fashion 
In Pittston all the while. 

And the men you meet in Pittston 
Are the noblest and the best ; 

There is nothing to excel them 
In the East or in the West; 

They are neighborly and honest, 

They can tell a story well, 

And have always time to listen 
To the story that you tell. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


83 


And the good old folks at Pittston 
Ah! to them off comes my hat; 

They’re philosophers, and good ones, 

I’ve had ample proof of that. 

If I had a mint of money, 

I would give it all, and more, 

Just to spend another hour 

With my Pittston friends of yore. 

When you’re airing your complaints then, 
Will you please leave Pittston out? 

Or admit it is a subject 

That you don’t know much about. 

But whenever you’re applauding 

You may praise old Pittston then; 

Praise her honest-hearted women 
And her open-handed men. 


84 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Sense of Loss 

I know that Rita's dolls are well, 

And each one dressed just like a belle; 
Maureen informs me she has five, 

And Dorothy has three alive. 

But poor, dear little Anna Rose! 

Her heart is filled with grief and woes; 

Her only dolly broke its head, 

And Doctor Dot said it was dead. 

They called the undertaker in; 

He brought a coffin lined with tin; 

With cambric crepe and fair field flowers, 
They mourned the doll for two straight hours. 
Miss Rita sent the “Gates Ajar” 

Maureen, an anchor; Dot, a star; 

But sympathetic Baby Joe 

Cried more than all the rest, I know. 

At half past three the bell was tolled 
And in a grave both deep and cold 
They placed the doll that fair June day, 

Then gaily scampered back to play. 

But one alone refused to leave 
And lingered by the grave to grieve. 

I vainly tried to tell her why 

’Tis wrong to mourn when dollies die. 

She raised her tear-stained face and sighed, 

“I know but it was mine that died.” 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


85 


God comfort little Anna Rose, 

Dear heart! She’ll learn where’er she goes, 
That lasting grief is seldom known 
Except to those who lose their own. 


To Margaret 

We never knew we cared for you 
That we could miss you so 
Until the day you went away, 

But now too well we know. 

We did not dream how dull ’twould seem 
Without your sunny smile, 

That we could miss one face like this 
And miss it all the while. 

Come back again, dear girl, and then 
We’ll prove how well we prize 
Your presence here, where all is drear 
Without your beaming eyes. 

Come back, sweet Pearl, our own good girl, 
And make our hearts rejoice, 

Come, bring relief, and banish grief, 

With the music of your voice. 



86 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


An Irishman's Prayer to Saint Anthony 

Now here you are Saint Anthony 
Gold framed upon my wall, 

And many people wonder why 
I care for you at all. 

Here is God's Blessed Mother with 
Saint Joseph by her side, 

Our glorious Saint Patrick too 
And Bridget, Ireland's Pride. 

Here is the great Saint Michael with 
His handsome Gaelic face, 

I wonder now Saint Anthony 
If you feel out of place. 

You know who hung your picture here 
The day I was away; 

It was my own good natured boy 
And so I let it stay. 

But oh! the lad, Saint Anthony 
Is now in sore disgrace, 

And if they prove him guilty, he 
Will never show his face. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


87 


They’re swearing false against him in 
The courthouse over there. 

To prove he is the villian who 
Has forged a note somewhere. 

Now, these are just the very words 
He said to me last night; 

“I know that good Saint Anthony 
Will see me through all right.” 

“But, Dad, I think ’twould please my saint 
If you would ask him too 

And promise something for his poor, 

And that, I know You’ll do.” 

I did not mind it much last night 
But oh! this dreadful day 

The tide has turned against my boy 
I could not bear to stay. 

I left him in the courthouse there 
And came right here to sue. 

Before, I never troubled you 
For anything, ’tis true. 

I never lit a candle yet 

Before your famous shrine, 

Now, if you want me for a friend 
Befriend this boy of mine. 


88 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


I’ll give a hundred loaves of bread 
To feed your orphan boys, 

And fifty pounds of candy and 
A bunch of Christmas toys. 

If only good St. Anthony 

You’ll make the guilty known. 
Hark! wait a minute will you ? 

I hear the telephone. 

Hello! what is it that you say ? 

The guilty one confessed! 

My boy is proved a hero, ay, 

God be forever blessed! 

You’ve proved yourself, St. Anthony, 
From this day forth you’ll see 
That every son of Italy 
Will find a friend in me. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


89 


True Sympathy 
To Loretta 

I have often stood and listened 
To the distant church bells toll, 
Sweet and slow and sad and solemn, 

For some dear departed soul; 

And responsive to their pleadings, 

From my heart a prayer went up 
For the dead, and for the living, 

Left to drink dark sorrow’s cup. 

I have lingered in a graveyard, 

Where the grass was wet with tears; 
And, while there, have meditated 
On the shortness of the years; 

There repeatedly I pondered 
O’er the solemn truth, that I, 

If not claimed by death full early, 
Should see those I cherish die. 

I have witnessed scenes of sorrow, 
Watched the last departing breath, 
And have placed my warm hand firmly 
On the icy brow of death. 

I have wept there with the mourners, 
Urging them to be resigned, 

Bidding them look up to Heaven, 

Where true comfort all may find. 


90 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Then I thought I knew what death meant, 
That I understood the grief, 

To which human art can never 
Give one atom of relief; 

Then I thought that it was easy 
To be fully reconciled, 

But I had not lost a parent, 

All is different now, my child. 

Since then I have learned a lesson 
That is only learned by loss; 

I can sympathize with others, 

Who now bear grief’s heavy cross. 

Well I understand your sorrow; 

I am conscious of the change 
That makes scenes, the most familiar, 

E’en the world itself seem strange. 

You have lost a noble father, 

One whom multitudes revered, 

One who by each word and action 
Was to your young heart endeared. 

God has snapped the cord that fastened 
Your affections on this earth; 

Now the world and all things worldly 
Seem to you of little worth. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


91 


Grace within your heart is stronger, 
Though your eyes with tears are dim; 
You would call not back that father, 
Nay, you fain would follow him. 

In this world you are a stranger, 

And your home no more is here; 

But the home where he awaits you, 

God’s sweet Home seems very near. 


The Snowbird 

A little boy met a wee snowbird at play, 

Just outside the door on a wild zero day; 

“Why don’t you fly South, my good fellow,” said Chris, 
“And look for a pleasanter country than this?” 

“Because,” the bird answered, “I’d much rather stay; 
My friends would be lonely, if I went away. 

The Robin has gone and Miss Bluebird, ’tis true, 

But who would be left here if I followed too ? 

The boys and girls love me, although I can’t sing, 

And so, I stay here to remind them of spring.” 

“Now pray, Mr. Bunting, don’t make a mistake: 

I asked you to leave us just for your own sake. 



92 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The mercury is down below zero, you know, 

The Northwind is frantic, and—look at the snow!” 

The snowbird just laughed: “Why, the Northwind likes me, 
Although I’ll admit that he’s some times too free. 

He’s roaring for fun, over there in the wood, 

But surely, you know that he does lots of good. 

The snow, too, is lovely and useful besides, 

Just think of the coasting and jolly sleigh-rides! 

And He who has sent it must know what is best 

For the North and the South and the East and the West.” 

“You’re right, Mr. Bunting; this weather is grand,” 

Said Chris, “To the South, here’s the back of my hand. 

The lesson you taught me is really worth while, 

I’ll greet roaring Boreas now with a smile. 

When Robin and Bluebird arrive, it is true; 

I’ll welcome them back, but I’ll not forget you.” 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


93 


A Memory 

Memory’s album opens oft 
Unbidden at the place 
Wherein I fastened years ago 
The picture of her face. 

A girlish, oval countenance, 

Too grave for one so young, 

’Twould seem the fair sun seldom shone 
Where this sweet flower had sprung. 

The broad, low brow is fitly crowned 
With waves of golden hair, 

A saint-like halo for a face 
More sanctified than fair. 

Too tender is the sweet curved lip, 

Too pale, perhaps, the cheek; 

But chin and nose both indicate 
A spirit far from weak. 

Dark eyebrows slightly arch above 
Still darker blue-grey eyes, 

Deep, earnest, thoughtful orb wherein 
The light of Heaven lies. 

How oft have these clear, truthful eyes 
Unknowingly revealed 
The secrets of a loving heart, 

That she would have concealed! 


94 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


“Death loves a shining mark,” and oh! 

Full soon he learned her worth, 

Full soon he claimed the heart that was 
Too good for this dark earth. 
Tonight, I bow my head and pray 
That I in heaven may look 
Upon this face so well preserved 
In Memory’s picture-book. 


Patrick F. Dtjrkan 

Not for the poet we lament, 

Though few among 

The sweetest bards in sweeter strains 
Have ever sung. 

Not for the patriot we mourn, 

Yet those who knew 

Our poet, doubt not that he loved 
His country true. 

Not for the loyal friend we sigh, 

For he can still 

Befriend us in the home of saints, 
Yea, and he will. 



LYRICS AND RHYMES 


95 


Though poet, patriot and friend 
Has gone to rest, 

It would not be so hard to say, 

“God’s will is best,” 

Did we not count a teacher less; 

And it is true 

That Christian educators are 
Alas! too few. 

What wonder that our hearts lament, 
And mourn and sigh, 

That he, our Christ-like teacher, should 
Too early die. 

Dear God, to spread Thy kingdom here 
He ever sought ; 

The science that Thy Heart approves 
He always taught: 

Then send us masters such as he, 

To urge Thy cause, 

Men who will do Thy work, and seek 
For no applause; 

Men who will plant in youthful hearts 
Faith’s holy seed; 

For Oh! we are of such as these 
In direst need. 


96 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


To a Namesake of Saint Patrick 

Though many Celtic hearts today 
With holy joy abound, 

’Tis with the namesakes of our saint 
The deepest joy is found; 

For well they know the power of him 
Whose patronage they claim, 

And with unbounded trust they ask 
Each grace in Patrick’s name. 

You are the client of this saint, 

Who watched with jealous care 
The children of his chosen land, 

Our verdant isle, so fair. 

Defender of their sacred rights, 

Their ardent, fearless knight, 

Who fought for them as only saints 
On fire with love can fight. 

No conquest that he gained for them 
He deemed too dearly bought; 

O can an Irish heart forget 

How brave St. Patrick fought? 

Before God’s throne he stands today 
Still eager to proclaim 
His zeal for Erin, to enhance 
The splendor of her name. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


97 


Great is his power in that fair court 
Where God and Mary reign; 

All that your heart may ask today 
Your patron can obtain; 

Then join your fervent prayers with ours 
That, through his love for her 

The land we love may realize 
A hope too long deferred. 

And may he bless all that you love, 

Your every effort bless; 

And crown the work you undertake 
For God’s sake with success. 

O may the welfare of our Faith 
Be still your constant aim, 

And may you live to honor long 
St. Patrick’s holy name. 


98 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


Sweet Comfort 

When I have not the time to say 
The prayers I want to say, 

Or when I am too tired to pray 
As I would like to pray; 

O then, it is a comfort sweet 
To know with certainty, 

When Mary, Clare and Robert pray 
They will remember me. 

And when death comes to me, as death 
Will come to everyone, 

And I look out with hopeful eyes 
Upon life’s setting sun; 

O then ’twill be a comfort sweet 
To know with certainty, 

When Mary, Clare and Robert pray 
They will remember me. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


99 


The Friend of the Poor 

{In loving memory of Mrs. Annette Kane who, through her zealous 
work in the St. Vincent de Paul Society, endeared 
herself to the poor of Scranton.) 

The sad Lenten season is over; 

The chill and the gloom 
Of cross and of tomb 

Are past, and with lilies, sweet lilies, 

The world is abloom. 

Thank God that for her it is over, 

The sorrowful Lent 
That suffering she spent. 

The joy of the Easter is with her, 

And none should lament. 

The light from her dark eye has faded, 

Her kind thoughtful eye; 

And yet should we sigh 

And know that her soul sees the Vision 
She longed for, on high? 

The hand that was often extended 
To tender relief, 

Or solace some grief 

Is pulseless; but let no lip murmur, 

“Her life was too brief.” 


100 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The sweet voice is silenced that ever 
Spoke words of good cheer, 

Words kind and sincere; 

The saints and the angels in heaven 
Its music now hear. 

Cold, cold is the heart that was ardent 
As any that throbbed; 

Oh! Death, you have robbed 

The poor of a friend, warm and faithful, 
What wonder they sobbed! 

Yes, she was their friend, and they loved her, 
Their zealous, true friend, 

Their own to the end; 

For her shall the prayers of the grateful 
To God's throne ascend. 

On Golgotha's height, uncomplaining 
She lingered so long, 

We know it is wrong 

To grieve that she now sings in heaven 
Her glad Easter song. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


101 


My Mother's Piano 

Don’t tell me you dislike it, 

That you think it in the way, 

The dear old, square piano 

That my mother used to play. 

It still awakens echoes, 

And sweet memories it recalls, 

Sweet memories of the music 

That called forth my first applause. 

My mother’s old piano 

With its once fair rosewood case, 

’Tis the dearest of my treasures 
And it still must have its place. 

God bless the kind old fingers 

That once pressed its ivory keys, 

To flood the air with music 

That my heart aches could appease. 

Don’t ask me to remove it, 

Don’t insist its in the way, 

The dear old square piano, 

That my mother used to play. 


102 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


The Day We Spent at Green Mount 

The day we spent at Green Mount 
The sun refused to shine, 

But all was light and cheerful, 

Dear little friends of mine; 

A warm and kindly welcome, 

A bright and sunny smile, 

Will make you think the weather 
Is pleasant all the while. 

The day we spent at Green Mount 
To me seemed very fair, 

And though the rain kept drizzling 
For that I did not care; 

With darling little Mary 
I'd rather sit and swing, 

Than wander through the woodland 
And hear the wild-birds sing. 

The day we spent at Green Mount 
No blue was in the skies, 

But I found all I cared for 
In her bright eager eyes. 

I envy the good angel 

Who guards her all the time— 

To watch and cherish Mary 
Must be a task sublime. 


LYRICS AND RHYMES 


103 


The day we spent at Green Mount 
Was dark and dull, they say, 

And yet I could not wish for 
A more delightful day; 

For Christopher was with me 
And with his golden hair 
He scattered sunshine round him 
Till all the world seemed fair. 

The day we spent at Green Mount 
Has filled a rosy page 
In Mem’ry’s sacred album 

That shall not fade with age; 

And often as I read it 

I'll breathe an earnest prayer 
For those dear friends at Green Mount 
Who made that dark day fair. 







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